HOW TO CHANGE A WHEEL

Changing a wheel is straightforward, provided you know where the tools and spare wheel are kept, and how to use a jack. If you've just bought the car, or if you have never changed a wheel before, it is worth practising at home - then you'll know exactly what to do if you get a flat tyre.

• Apply the handbrake, engage first gear or set automatic transmission to 'P', then use the blocks of wood to chock the wheel diagonally opposite to the one that is being changed.
• Put on the gloves, get out the spare wheel, vehicle jack and wheelbrace. They are generally located in the luggage area, under a cover in the floor (see in your car handbook for details).
• Lay the carpet beside the flat tyre to kneel on. Where applicable, remove the wheel trim/cover - you may need to cut nylon cable ties fitted to stop theft - then prise off the trim or cover with a flat-bladed screwdriver. Use thewheelbrace to loosen each wheel bolt/nut on the affected wheel by about half a turn - if necessary, employing the special socket for any anti-theft bolts or nuts.
• Engage the jack head in the jacking point nearest the affected wheel (check your Haynes Manual for details). Slide the spare wheel part way under the car, near the wheel to be removed, but out of the way of the jack (this is a safety measure in case the jack slips). Raise the jack until the tyre is 25 to 50mm off the ground.

It's important to get the flat tyre repaired or renewed as soon as possible - don't put it off!.        

 Positioning a wheel on the hub can be tricky, as you have to support its weight at the same time. If you find this difficult, try resting the wheel on your shoe to help you manoeuvre the wheel into position (but be careful not to hurt your foot).









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